2015 – A Year of God’s Light and Love

“And God said, ‘Let there be light.’ And there was light” (Genesis 1:3).

In the beginning God said, “Let there be Light; and there was Light.” This is the first thing we are told in the Bible. By this we learn two important things — God speaks, and what He says happens.

Let’s focus here on what He said: “Let there be light.” What do you suppose that means?

Before you answer, consider this fact. On Day One of Creation, God said, “Let there be light” and there was light. However, He did not create the sun, moon, and stars until Day Four. Therefore, the phrase, “Let there be light”, cannot mean sunshine. What, then, does it mean?

The only way we can know for certain is to let the Bible itself tell us. And we do that by paying attention to what the Bible says about “light” in other places.

We turn to the New Testament and find that John writes, “This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all” (1 John 1:5). Then, later in the book, John goes on to say, “God is love” (ch.4:8, and 16).

God is Light; and God is Love. John puts the literal and the figurative side by side. God is Love — that’s literal. God is Light — that’s figurative. And both mean the same thing. One is a metaphor of the other.

When we see the word “light” in the Bible, and it is not talking specifically about natural light, we can conclude that it is a figurative reference to the Love of God.

Thus, on Day One when God in the beginning said, “Let there be light!” – He was saying, “Let there be a revelation of My love!”

And there was.

This means that everything that has happened from Day One forward — even unto this present hour — has as its singular purpose the revealing of God’s love to us one way or another!

The Bible Summed Up in Four Words

“Let there be light!” These four words sum up the entire Bible. Everything that follows this opening declaration by God serves the purpose of fulfilling it.

His will is that we see a revelation of His love in everything He has made, in everything He says, and in everything He does. His purpose in all of this is that we come to know Him by being loved by Him, love Him in return, and share His love with others all around us.

The Garden in which our First Parents were placed was a revelation of God’s love for them. The bounty of His blessings and the nearness of His presence provided lavish proof of His love.

And when they yielded to the subtle temptation to “be as God” by eating the forbidden fruit – even then, though banished from Paradise, nevertheless God revealed His love by covering them with the skin of an innocent animal, slain on their behalf.

Moreover, He also provided them with protection and natural blessings in abundance as they ventured into a thorn-infested wilderness. Cursed, and yet offered mercy. Expelled, and yet provided protection. Friends, now that’s Love.

But there’s more.

As mankind multiplied and increased in the earth, God chose Abraham and his descendants to be a nation set apart so that the whole world could see a revelation of His love displayed in how He cared and provided for His own.

The giving of the Law on Mt Sinai was a revelation of His love, bringing civil order to a wandering people who had known nothing but oppressive slavery.

The sending forth of Prophets and Seers, Teachers and Priests, Judges and Kings – all were expressions of His great love for His people, as He raised their standard of living and built them into a beacon for the world to see His great love.

And though they floundered and failed time and time again, He remained faithful in His unfailing love. This shines as a bright beacon for all who struggle through life.

But the brightest Light was yet to come; the greatest revelation of His love for all of us was just around the corner.

“I Am The Light of the World!”

In the beginning God said “Let there be light!” From that moment it has been His will that all creation serve as a revelation of His love to those He has created.

Paul tells us that God has shown what He is like by everything He has created — “the invisible things of Him are clearly seen in the things that are made” (Rom.1:20).

God is powerful. God is thoughtful. God is awesome. We see all this and more in creation. But God, in all and above all, is LOVE — that’s the one thing He wants us to know above all others.

And, the crowning moment in the unfolding process of that singular revelation happened when Jesus came.

Paul tells us that Jesus was “the image of the invisible God” (Colossians 1:15). Jesus Himself said, “He that has seen me has seen the Father.” On one occasion when speaking to a large crowd gathered in Jerusalem, Jesus said “I am the light of the world.” (John 8:12)

We have heard the Old Testament decree – “Let there be Light!” And now we hear the New Testament reply – “I am the Light of the world!” In other words Jesus is saying, “I am the revelation of My Father’s love.” Indeed, truer words were never spoken.

At last we have a sure and unmistakable display of the one thing God has wanted all along — LIGHT shining in the darkness; God’s love triumphing over all evil.

Everything Jesus said and did was a demonstration of the overwhelming power of God’s love in every circumstance!

When Jesus healed the sick — that was God’s love in action. When He cast out demons, opened the eyes of the blind, raised the dead, turned water into wine — that was God’s love on display. When He rebuked self-righteousness and confronted those who stood in judgment over others — that also was a revelation of God’s love.

Now, let’s make it personal.

My friend, God loves you. Yet, it is possible that sin may have so wrecked your life that you cannot see God’s love for you in the things that are around you in your world. But, if you will only look to Jesus then the scales will fall from your eyes and you will see clearly the great love of God for YOU!

And once that happens an astonishing transformation occurs in your life – so much so that Jesus Himself said, “You Are the Light of the World!”

“You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden.” (Matthew 5:14)

Jesus said many staggering things, and this statement ranks high on the list – “You are the light of the world.”

Here He is passing the torch to His followers. “The works that I do, you will do,” He told His disciples, “and greater than these, for I go to My Father.” (John 14:12)

In other words, “Just as I have shown you My Father’s love, so now you do the same to all those around you. For I am leaving, and now you are the revelation of God’s love to the world!”

No pressure. We are to do the job in the same manner as Jesus.

Luke tells us that God “anointed Jesus of Nazareth, with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him” (Acts 10:38).

As God was with Jesus, and anointed Him with the Holy Spirit and power, so now is He with us. And He is fully committed to our success for the sake of His Son’s honor (see John 13:35, and ch.17:21).

Has it ever occurred to you that today, in somebody’s life, you may be the only opportunity they will ever have to see and experience God’s love? Did you know that even a simple act of kindness by you towards another can be vested with the power of the Holy Spirit and turn darkness to light?

Are you aware that as you stroll through the day in your usual surroundings you are like a torch passing through a cave – bringing light, warmth, and hope everywhere you go?

Don’t laugh. Don’t dismiss this. And don’t count yourself out. Jesus said it, and He meant it – “You are the light of the world.”

What would each day hold in store for us if we walked through every situation looking for opportunities to say or do something that could reveal God’s love to somebody else who really needs it?

Go for it and see what happens!

Arise! Shine!

“Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the LORD is risen upon thee.” (Isaiah 60:1)

January 1, 2015 – It is the dawn of a new day, a new year.

What might the Lord have to say to us at this significant moment? What word might He speak to carry us both forward and upward with a faith unfailing, a hope undying, and a love unending?

What could He say that would lift us above the darkening days of winter, both natural and spiritual, and give us a warming vision that sees beyond our times, so that we may patiently prevail until the chill thaws and beautiful springtime is once again upon us?

I think I know.

And it’s not new; the words have been with us for some time now, like a perpetual torch passed down through the ages to enlighten any darkened day, and buoy any flagging spirit — “Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the LORD is risen upon thee.” (Isaiah 60:1)

This is a word filled with great powers – the power of light and glory; the power of faith and courage.

This is a word that stirs us to higher things – “Arise!” It is a word that summons us to a nobler outlook – “Shine!”

This word infuses us with a faith to believe and take hold of what we may not be able to actually see or feel – “Your light has come, and the glory of the Lord is risen upon you!”

And this is a word that dares us to a life of action born of a courageous faith. Notice the specific order of the words, “Arise. Shine.” The implication is that if we will do the first part, “Arise!” – Then the Lord will see to it that the second part occurs, “Shine!”

And it’s here that faith and courage must respond. We might prefer it to say, “Shine, and then Arise.” You know, “Lord, if You will light me up, THEN I will take a stand and serve You.”

“No,” the Lord courteously replies, “You take a stand and serve Me, and THEN I will light you up!”

In other words, “Arise! Shine!”

This is what I believe the Lord is saying for this new day, and this New Year. This is what the Lord is saying to you….and to me.

This Little Light of Mine

“Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16)

Somewhere back in our childhood most of us at some time or another sang the little chorus, “This little light of mine; I’m gonna let it shine.” It’s one of those songs we all know. But, though we can sing it – do we know how to actually do it?

How exactly do I let my light shine?

The Apostle Paul tells us how — “Do all things without complaining and disputing, that you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world.” (Philippians 2:14-15).

The Message puts it this way: “Do everything readily and cheerfully – no bickering, no second-guessing allowed! Go out into the world uncorrupted, a breath of fresh air in this squalid and polluted society. Provide people with a glimpse of good living, and of the living God. Carry the light-giving Message into the night.”

There’s not really much else to say is there? Can you see what a difference it would make in your home if you did everything readily and cheerfully? And how would things change on the job if you did all things without complaining and disputing? One thing’s for sure, rush-hour would most definitely be different!

Conclusion

OK, so maybe this is a little unrealistic…..as it pertains to people who do not personally know the love of the Lord. But it is not at all outside the realm of real possibility for you and me. We can do this; we should do this. The fact is – we must do it. For, if not us – then, who?

Yep. This little light of mine; I’m gonna let it shine. How about you? Let’s go out today and provide people with a glimpse of God’s love in how we treat them. Let’s carry the light-giving message into the night.

If we will – then indeed 2015 will be a Year of God’s Light and Love!

PRAYER

Father of Light, You never change. You don’t fade in and out like shadows cast when the sun or moon are over head – with You there are no shadows!

Bring us into the Light, and flood our lives with Your love. Let us bring the uplifting, redeeming, life-transforming power of Your presence into our world this Year.

Open our hearts with love and fill our hands with generosity in showing kindness, blessing, forgiveness, healing and deliverance. Let the joyful sound be heard in our land!

Amen

Questions for Discussion Group

Here is a way you can share this truth with others. Print out the PDF version of this Devotional — 01 Let There Be Light — make copies and distribute among a group of friends. Meet together, read the devotional, and then use the following questions to help lead a discussion time.

What is the single purpose of everything that happens in your life?

In what personal ways has God revealed His love to you??

Give a specific example of how the created world shows us something about the Creator?

What are some of the ways you can show the love of God to others?

What would it be like for you to live one day without complaining?

TruthWorks Ministries is a non-profit ministry, depending solely upon love offerings or honorariums generated by speaking invitations; and upon the generosity of readers like you through contributions made online. Click – “Support TruthWorks”

Thank You!

The Hopes and Fears of All the Years….

A Devotional Study by: James Ryle, December 22, 2014

“And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger. And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child. And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds.” (Luke 2:16-18)

Phillips Brooks, Rector of Philadelphia, wrote the words to O Little Town of Bethlehem in 1868, following a pilgrimage to the Holy Land. He was inspired by the view of Bethlehem from the hills of Palestine especially at night time; hence the lyrics.

His church organist, Lewis Redner, wrote the melody for the Sunday school children’s choir.

There is a line from in the first verse that almost gets lost in the bigger picture of the song. “The hopes and fears of all the years are met in Thee tonight.”

Hopes and Fears represent the polar ends of a wide range of feelings.

As we gaze back into that historic moment laid out before us in the Gospels, there we see a most remarkable assortment of figures gathering round about this infant boy. And unknowingly they unite to send a singular message down through the Ages.

We can all come together in the presence of Christ.

This is the message of Christmas — kings and shepherds, angels and men, rich and poor, foreigner and citizen, influential and powerless — all ALIKE in one unforgettable moment of Community in the presence of the infant Christ.

Now consider — if the Babe in the Manger was orbed with such compelling influence that He could bring together those who otherwise would have nothing to do with one another, how much more so is this possible now that He is crowned King of Kings and Lord of Lords!

The hopes and fears of all the years were once gathered and resolved in a sacred evening long ago. O Lord, do it again in our world today — for night has fallen upon us, and we need Your light to show us the way.

May the full blessings of that first Christmas be yours on this blessed day, and everyday hereafter through the remaining days of your journey!

Thank You for 2014!

It has been our delight to provide these daily devotions throughout this past year. Would you make a year-end tax deductible contribution to TruthWorks to help us carry on into 2015? We would appreciate it far more than you could possibly even know; and you will be blessed in ways we could never imagine!

The Coincidence of Christmas

“And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed. And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city.”(Luke 2:1-3).

We know that Joseph and Mary lived in lowly Nazareth, and that they were relatively poor. We also know that the prophets of old foretold that the Messiah would be born in Bethlehem, which is about 70 miles south of Nazareth. And we know that somehow Joseph and Mary, despite their financial challenges, would need to move to Bethlehem before the child was born.

But there is more to this story than at first meets the eye.

An angel could have appeared to them and said, “It’s time to go.” And a miraculous provision could have been made whereby the trip was rendered effortless.

I mean, Elijah’s flaming chariot could have swooped down and whisked them away in seconds. Or, for that matter, the Spirit could have mysteriously transported them like He did with Ezekiel, or with Philip the Evangelist after he baptized the Ethiopian.

But no, it was a donkey ride for a very pregnant Mary.

Furthermore, it was necessary that Bethlehem be very crowded — in fact, over-crowded, so as to insure that there would be no room for them in the Inn; thus leaving them to the one place no one would choose on purpose — a stable behind the Inn, where a manger would serve as the Baby’s bed.

And, mind you, all this had to happen in ways that could not be detected as divine.

So God put it in the heart of Caesar Augustus to issue a decree that all the world be taxed, requiring every man to return to his home town. Thus Joseph, against his better judgment, had to submit to the law of Caesar and make the perilous trip to Bethlehem.

Arriving at such an hour that all rooms had been taken — he settled into the stable and unknowingly finds himself at the epicenter of human history.

The Bible tells us that “God works all things after the counsel of His will.” So while Caesar regarded himself as the Emperor of the world, it was the Lord of Heaven and Earth who directed the King’s heart to accomplish His divine will.

When we carefully examine all the extraordinary events that each had to occur in an exact order and with specific timing so that Jesus would be born in Bethlehem, in a manger — we cannot but be staggered at how the hand of God worked in all these things.

This was more than mere coincidence — it was the Coincidence of Christmas.

Let me ask a question. Is it possible that the hand of God is still working in coincidental ways today, both in our world as well as in our personal lives, in order to bring more and more of Jesus into our daily affairs?

And instead of murmuring and complaining about disruptions and inconveniences — might we all be better served by looking for how God’s hand is working, and then start thanking Him for what He is doing?

And here’s a question….….

Why Bethlehem?

“But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times.” (Micah 5:2).

Why Bethlehem? Of all the places Jesus could have been born, why Bethlehem. And mind you, it wasn’t a random happenstance that He was born there — it was foretold. He was ordained by God to be born there, and the prophets of old declared it. Bethlehem was the chosen city of His birth.

But why?

Maybe we might suppose that Bethlehem was chosen specifically because it was so small and insignificant. After all, God seems to take special delight in exalting the lowly and humbling the proud. He forever is taking the things that are foolish and confounding the wise; the things that are nothing, to bring to nothing the things that are thought to be something.

So, maybe this is why He chose Bethlehem. Maybe. But I think there is still something more to this that is worthy of our consideration.

The name Bethlehem means “House of Bread.”

Jesus said of Himself, “I am the Bread of Life.”

Don’t you find it more than a little remarkable that the Bread of Life was sent down from Heaven to be born in the House of Bread. But there is still one more detail, too important to overlook.

We know that Jesus was wrapped in swaddling clothes and laid in a manger. But what we may not know is that the manger in which He was placed was actually a feeding trough.

And now the full picture unfolds before us — the Bread of Life was sent down from Heaven above into the House of Bread, and placed in a feeding trough. Why? That we might eat and live!

This is what Jesus was talking about when He said, “I am the living bread that came down from heaven. If you eat this bread, you will live forever. The bread that I will give you is my flesh, which I give so that the world may live.” (John 6:51)

The plain meaning of the passage is, that by his body and his blood offered in sacrifice for sin, He would procure pardon and life for man; that they who partook of that, or had an interest in that, should obtain eternal life. He uses the figure of eating and drinking because, among the Jews, eating and drinking was expressive of sharing in or partaking of the privileges of friendship.

And there’s just one more thing….

Why were the Shepherds the FIRST to be told?

“Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night.” (Luke 2:8).

No one knew but Joseph and Mary, and their closest relatives. To all other observers Mary was a pregnant girl shrouded in scandalous rumor; and Joseph was a rascal. This may account for the added disinterest shown to them when they needed a place in crowded Bethlehem for the Babe to be born.

An Inn Keeper showed them kindness and offered the stable behind his Inn. And there the Baby was born. No one knew but Joseph and Mary, and their closest relatives, that this Baby was the Messiah; the Savior of the World.

Who would be first outside the Holy Family to hear the news? It was the Shepherds in the fields, keeping watch over their flocks by night.

At first telling this strikes us as strange — but not any more so than all the other unexpected turns and twists in the story thus far.

And then we may deem it rather quaint that humble shepherds would be told first; after all, haven’t we all read, “The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want.” Maybe God has a tender place in His heart toward shepherds, and so decided to let them in on it first.

In reality, there was a very specific and important reason why the Shepherds were first to hear the announcement.

In his book The Life and Times of Jesus the Messiah, Alfred Edersheim explains that these particular shepherds were distinct from all others in Israel; and their flocks, which they tended so closely at night, were also very special. For you see, these shepherds were a part of the priesthood, and these sheep were specifically set aside to be sacrificial lambs in the Temple services.

The shepherds had the responsibility to make sure that a lamb without spot or blemish be preserved from harm, until it could be brought forth for sacrifice. It was only fitting therefore that the angels would make the news known to them, just when they were minding their own business.

And listen carefully to the words the Angel spoke. “Unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.”

In other words, the Spotless Lamb has come. “Behold the Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the World!” said John, as he saw Jesus walking by the Jordan some years later.

Seeing these priest shepherds were about to be put out of business once the ultimate Lamb was sacrificed, it was only fitting that they were given notice well in advance!

What a Coincidence!

CONCLUSION

Never think for a moment that God is not working in even the seemingly most unrelated details of your day. He orchestrates events and encounters at just the right time to bring each of us closer and closer to Himself. We therefore ought always to lift up our heads and watch for what the Lord is doing….for no coincident, be it great or small, is without significance. Each one takes us a step closer to an encounter with Jesus.

PRAYER

Father, we thank You for Your faithfulness to always work things for our good. Open our eyes to always see Your hand at work in the events that affect our lives, be they great or small.

Let us like Abraham of old, walk with wonder in Your presence as you guide us step by step to new encounters with You and deeper discoveries of Truth.

Keep our minds from complaint and bitterness, and fill our hearts with thankfulness and joy at the many ways You work in our lives each day.

Questions for Discussion Group

Here is a way you can share this truth with others. Print out the PDF version of this Devotional — click 10 The Coincidence of Christmas — make copies and distribute among a group of friends. Meet together, read the devotional, and then use the following questions to help lead a discussion time.

What is the most amazing “coincidence” you’ve ever experienced?

In what ways would your life be different if you had missed out on what God was doing in that experience?

Is it possible that some of the decrees that are being made by world leaders today might be steps in a process whereby God brings about a deeper revelation of Jesus in our times?

How would your life be different if you went about each day watching for the hand of the Lord to work on your behalf?

In what way can you personally help others to experience an increasing awareness of God’s presence in their lives?

Thank You for 2014!

It has been our delight to provide these devotions throughout this past year. Would you make a year-end tax deductible contribution to TruthWorks to help us carry on into 2015? We would appreciate it far more than you could possibly even know; and you will be blessed in ways we could never imagine!

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“And God said, ‘Let there be light.’ And there was light” (Genesis 1:3).

In the beginning God said, “Let there be Light; and there was Light.” This is the first thing we are told in the Bible. By this we learn two important things — God speaks, and what He says happens.

Let’s focus here on what He said: “Let there be light.” What do you suppose that means?

Before you answer, consider this fact. On Day One of Creation, God said, “Let there be light” and there was light. However, He did not create the sun, moon, and stars until Day Four. Therefore, the phrase, “Let there be light”, cannot mean sunshine. What, then, does it mean?

The only way we can know for certain is to let the Bible itself tell us. And we do that by paying attention to what the Bible says about “light” in other places.

We turn to the New Testament and find that John writes, “This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all” (1 John 1:5). Then, later in the book, John goes on to say, “God is love” (ch.4:8, and 16).

God is Light; and God is Love. John puts the literal and the figurative side by side. God is Love — that’s literal. God is Light — that’s figurative. And both mean the same thing. One is a metaphor of the other.

When we see the word “light” in the Bible, and it is not talking specifically about natural light, we can conclude that it is a figurative reference to the Love of God.

Thus, on Day One when God in the beginning said, “Let there be light!” – He was saying, “Let there be a revelation of My love!”

And there was.

This means that everything that has happened from Day One forward — even unto this present hour — has as its singular purpose the revealing of God’s love to us one way or another!

The Bible Summed Up in Four Words

“Let there be light!” These four words sum up the entire Bible. Everything that follows this opening declaration by God serves the purpose of fulfilling it.

His will is that we see a revelation of His love in everything He has made, in everything He says, and in everything He does. His purpose in all of this is that we come to know Him by being loved by Him, love Him in return, and share His love with others all around us.

The Garden in which our First Parents were placed was a revelation of God’s love for them. The bounty of His blessings and the nearness of His presence provided lavish proof of His love.

And when they yielded to the subtle temptation to “be as God” by eating the forbidden fruit – even then, though banished from Paradise, nevertheless God revealed His love by covering them with the skin of an innocent animal, slain on their behalf.

Moreover, He also provided them with protection and natural blessings in abundance as they ventured into a thorn-infested wilderness. Cursed, and yet offered mercy. Expelled, and yet provided protection. Friends, now that’s Love.

But there’s more.

As mankind multiplied and increased in the earth, God chose Abraham and his descendants to be a nation set apart so that the whole world could see a revelation of His love displayed in how He cared and provided for His own.

The giving of the Law on Mt Sinai was a revelation of His love, bringing civil order to a wandering people who had known nothing but oppressive slavery.

The sending forth of Prophets and Seers, Teachers and Priests, Judges and Kings – all were expressions of His great love for His people, as He raised their standard of living and built them into a beacon for the world to see His great love.

And though they floundered and failed time and time again, He remained faithful in His unfailing love. This shines as a bright beacon for all who struggle through life.

But the brightest Light was yet to come; the greatest revelation of His love for all of us was just around the corner.

“I Am The Light of the World!”

In the beginning God said “Let there be light!” From that moment it has been His will that all creation serve as a revelation of His love to those He has created.

Paul tells us that God has shown what He is like by everything He has created — “the invisible things of Him are clearly seen in the things that are made” (Rom.1:20).

God is powerful. God is thoughtful. God is awesome. We see all this and more in creation. But God, in all and above all, is LOVE — that’s the one thing He wants us to know above all others.

And, the crowning moment in the unfolding process of that singular revelation happened when Jesus came.

Paul tells us that Jesus was “the image of the invisible God” (Colossians 1:15). Jesus Himself said, “He that has seen me has seen the Father.” On one occasion when speaking to a large crowd gathered in Jerusalem, Jesus said “I am the light of the world.” (John 8:12)

We have heard the Old Testament decree – “Let there be Light!” And now we hear the New Testament reply – “I am the Light of the world!” In other words Jesus is saying, “I am the revelation of My Father’s love.” Indeed, truer words were never spoken.

At last we have a sure and unmistakable display of the one thing God has wanted all along — LIGHT shining in the darkness; God’s love triumphing over all evil.

Everything Jesus said and did was a demonstration of the overwhelming power of God’s love in every circumstance!

When Jesus healed the sick — that was God’s love in action. When He cast out demons, opened the eyes of the blind, raised the dead, turned water into wine — that was God’s love on display. When He rebuked self-righteousness and confronted those who stood in judgment over others — that also was a revelation of God’s love.

Now, let’s make it personal.

My friend, God loves you. Yet, it is possible that sin may have so wrecked your life that you cannot see God’s love for you in the things that are around you in your world. But, if you will only look to Jesus then the scales will fall from your eyes and you will see clearly the great love of God for YOU!

And once that happens an astonishing transformation occurs in your life – so much so that Jesus Himself said, “You Are the Light of the World!”

“You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden.” (Matthew 5:14)

Jesus said many staggering things, and this statement ranks high on the list – “You are the light of the world.”

Here He is passing the torch to His followers. “The works that I do, you will do,” He told His disciples, “and greater than these, for I go to My Father.” (John 14:12)

In other words, “Just as I have shown you My Father’s love, so now you do the same to all those around you. For I am leaving, and now you are the revelation of God’s love to the world!”

No pressure. We are to do the job in the same manner as Jesus.

Luke tells us that God “anointed Jesus of Nazareth, with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him” (Acts 10:38).

As God was with Jesus, and anointed Him with the Holy Spirit and power, so now is He with us. And He is fully committed to our success for the sake of His Son’s honor (see John 13:35, and ch.17:21).

Has it ever occurred to you that today, in somebody’s life, you may be the only opportunity they will ever have to see and experience God’s love? Did you know that even a simple act of kindness by you towards another can be vested with the power of the Holy Spirit and turn darkness to light?

Are you aware that as you stroll through the day in your usual surroundings you are like a torch passing through a cave – bringing light, warmth, and hope everywhere you go?

Don’t laugh. Don’t dismiss this. And don’t count yourself out. Jesus said it, and He meant it – “You are the light of the world.”

What would each day hold in store for us if we walked through every situation looking for opportunities to say or do something that could reveal God’s love to somebody else who really needs it?

Go for it and see what happens!

Arise! Shine!

“Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the LORD is risen upon thee.” (Isaiah 60:1)

January 1, 2015 – It is the dawn of a new day, a new year.

What might the Lord have to say to us at this significant moment? What word might He speak to carry us both forward and upward with a faith unfailing, a hope undying, and a love unending?

What could He say that would lift us above the darkening days of winter, both natural and spiritual, and give us a warming vision that sees beyond our times, so that we may patiently prevail until the chill thaws and beautiful springtime is once again upon us?

I think I know.

And it’s not new; the words have been with us for some time now, like a perpetual torch passed down through the ages to enlighten any darkened day, and buoy any flagging spirit — “Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the LORD is risen upon thee.” (Isaiah 60:1)

This is a word filled with great powers – the power of light and glory; the power of faith and courage.

This is a word that stirs us to higher things – “Arise!” It is a word that summons us to a nobler outlook – “Shine!”

This word infuses us with a faith to believe and take hold of what we may not be able to actually see or feel – “Your light has come, and the glory of the Lord is risen upon you!”

And this is a word that dares us to a life of action born of a courageous faith. Notice the specific order of the words, “Arise. Shine.” The implication is that if we will do the first part, “Arise!” – Then the Lord will see to it that the second part occurs, “Shine!”

And it’s here that faith and courage must respond. We might prefer it to say, “Shine, and then Arise.” You know, “Lord, if You will light me up, THEN I will take a stand and serve You.”

“No,” the Lord courteously replies, “You take a stand and serve Me, and THEN I will light you up!”

In other words, “Arise! Shine!”

This is what I believe the Lord is saying for this new day, and this New Year. This is what the Lord is saying to you….and to me.

This Little Light of Mine

“Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16)

Somewhere back in our childhood most of us at some time or another sang the little chorus, “This little light of mine; I’m gonna let it shine.” It’s one of those songs we all know. But, though we can sing it – do we know how to actually do it?

How exactly do I let my light shine?

The Apostle Paul tells us how — “Do all things without complaining and disputing, that you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world.” (Philippians 2:14-15).

The Message puts it this way: “Do everything readily and cheerfully – no bickering, no second-guessing allowed! Go out into the world uncorrupted, a breath of fresh air in this squalid and polluted society. Provide people with a glimpse of good living, and of the living God. Carry the light-giving Message into the night.”

There’s not really much else to say is there? Can you see what a difference it would make in your home if you did everything readily and cheerfully? And how would things change on the job if you did all things without complaining and disputing? One thing’s for sure, rush-hour would most definitely be different!

Conclusion

OK, so maybe this is a little unrealistic…..as it pertains to people who do not personally know the love of the Lord. But it is not at all outside the realm of real possibility for you and me. We can do this; we should do this. The fact is – we must do it. For, if not us – then, who?

Yep. This little light of mine; I’m gonna let it shine. How about you? Let’s go out today and provide people with a glimpse of God’s love in how we treat them. Let’s carry the light-giving message into the night.

If we will – then indeed 2015 will be a Year of God’s Light and Love!

PRAYER

Father of Light, You never change. You don’t fade in and out like shadows cast when the sun or moon are over head – with You there are no shadows!

Bring us into the Light, and flood our lives with Your love. Let us bring the uplifting, redeeming, life-transforming power of Your presence into our world this Year.

Open our hearts with love and fill our hands with generosity in showing kindness, blessing, forgiveness, healing and deliverance. Let the joyful sound be heard in our land!

Amen

Questions for Discussion Group

Here is a way you can share this truth with others. Print out the PDF version of this Devotional — 01 Let There Be Light — make copies and distribute among a group of friends. Meet together, read the devotional, and then use the following questions to help lead a discussion time.

What is the single purpose of everything that happens in your life?

In what personal ways has God revealed His love to you??

Give a specific example of how the created world shows us something about the Creator?

What are some of the ways you can show the love of God to others?

What would it be like for you to live one day without complaining?

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